Arthritis is a very common condition, a chronic disease that causes inflammation in the joints and is very painful for sufferers. In the UK, around 10 million people suffer from arthritis, most commonly either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition usually affecting older people or those who have suffered a joint injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that can strike at any age.
While we know what causes arthritis, there is no known cure and scientists are continually exploring what part lifestyle or environmental factors play in people developing the condition. Studies have examined the role of genetics, diet and nutrition, strenuous activity and climate in arthritis, identifying certain trigger factors.
Valuable though these studies are, they do not explain why arthritis is so common and nor are they able to offer concrete advice on how to avoid developing the condition.
There may be some preventative measures you can take if you feel you are at risk of developing osteoarthritis – this might be because a member of your family already has the condition, you have had a joint injury, you smoke or you work in a physically demanding job. Change your diet to include more fresh fruit and vegetables and reduce how much red meat and fatty foods you consume. Omega 3 fatty acids are known to have certain health benefits and are present in fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines, and in walnuts and flax seeds.
Obesity is considered to increase the risk of arthritis so if you are overweight, losing weight and doing exercises that strengthen the joints and improve muscle tone will not only potentially reduce your risk of arthritis but also improve your overall health.
While these preventative measures might have an effect if you start them long before you show any signs of developing arthritis, they will not help if you have already been diagnosed, though diet and exercise are essential to you maintaining movement and flexibility.
Lead a healthy lifestyle without smoking, alcohol only in moderation and regular exercise from as early an age as possible and you stand a good chance of avoiding arthritis in any form.
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